Bill > S2943

This bill amends the charter of the town of Southbridge. The key provisions include: - Establishing a town council-town manager form of government for Southbridge, with the town council having general legislative and policy-making powers and the town manager serving as the chief administrative officer. - Detailing the composition, powers, and procedures of the town council, including provisions around by-laws, meetings, and filling vacancies. - Outlining the roles and responsibilities of the elected town boards and officers, such as the school committee, housing authority, and town clerk. - Defining the appointment, powers, and duties of the town manager, including the ability to appoint various department heads and boards/commissions. - Establishing financial procedures and budgeting requirements for the town. - Providing for the initiative, referendum, and recall of elected officials by the voters. - Including transitional provisions to continue existing laws and government operations during the implementation of the new charter. The bill also requires voter approval of a specific section related to the town manager's residency requirement before that provision can take effect.